In the flood-hit mountains of Himachal Pradesh, where swollen rivers often isolate remote villages, a nurse’s extraordinary act of courage has captured the nation’s attention. Kamla Devi, a 40-year-old health worker, risked her life to ensure a newborn child received an essential vaccination on time — a moment now immortalised in a viral video.
The clip shows Kamla Devi crossing a fast-flowing river in Mandi district, carefully balancing herself on slippery rocks while carrying her medical bag. With her sandals clutched in one hand and determination written on her face, she braved the force of the water to reach the baby before the immunisation schedule lapsed.
Such people truly need appreciation! From Chauharghati Mandi HP, Kamla Devi, a health worker, crossed a flooded stream by jumping to reach Hurang village and vaccinate babies. With roads blocked due to floods and landslides, she carried duty on her shoulders. pic.twitter.com/FbysmHKqOB
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) August 22, 2025
“I was worried about the baby. The mother couldn’t come for immunisation because of the weather, so I thought I should go to them,” she said. Posted at the Primary Health Centre in Sudhar under Padhar tehsil, Kamla Devi also oversees the Swar Health Sub-Centre, which includes the infant’s home. With access roads destroyed by floods and landslides, she had no option but to cross the river on foot.
Her dedication soon turned into a leap of faith, as she made her way through the turbulent stream to complete her duty. “The baby’s vaccination was my responsibility. Nothing else mattered,” she recalled.
After the video went viral, Kamla Devi was widely praised on social media. Users called her a “real-life hero” and an “inspiration” for others in the healthcare field. However, the viral moment also sparked debate — with many questioning why such life-threatening conditions persist for frontline workers in remote areas.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Deepali Sharma acknowledged Kamla Devi’s bravery but urged caution for others. “It was a courageous act, but we don’t want our health workers to endanger their lives. If there are accessibility issues, arrangements will be made,” she said.
Kamla Devi’s story goes beyond one act of bravery. It highlights the resilience and selflessness of India’s rural health workers, who continue to serve under the harshest conditions. Her courage stands as a powerful reminder of humanity, duty, and compassion in the face of adversity.